a government appointee who investigates complaints by private persons against the government
"The newly appointed ombudsman received hundreds of letters from citizens complaining about unfair housing evictions by local authorities."
An appointed official whose duty is to investigate complaints, generally on behalf of individuals such as consumers or taxpayers, against institutions such as companies and government departments.
"After waiting months for a refund from the airline, I decided to contact the consumer ombudsman to file my complaint directly with the department that regulates travel agencies."